If you’ve moved home and need a new dentist, or maybe you’ve just decided you need a change from your old one, finding a new dental practice can be a challenge. You need someone you can trust, someonone you feel comfortable with, and someone that is going to do a good job with your oral health.
We’ve put together this short article to help you choose a dentist, explaining all the things you need to consider when making your choice.
Location and office hours
A trip to the dentist should be as easy as possible, and having to make a three hour round trip for a check-up isn’t going to encourage you to attend regularly.
When choosing a new dental practice, find one which is close to either your home or to your work, and one which is open convenient hours.
Fees for dental treatment
This is a difficult one: you need to be beware of charlatans charging a fortune and you should also be wary of something that’s too cheap, especially when it comes to any kind of medical procedure.
Once you find a reasonably priced practice, ask about payment plans, if they accept installments for more expensive work, do they give estimates, and whether they accept insurance claims.
Professional Qualifications
Dentistry is a highly skilled profession, which takes years of training. All good dentists will be happy to inform you about their qualifications and training. They will also be up-to-date on the latest industry practices, technologies and Health & Safety laws.
The vast majority of dental professionals are trustworthy, but there will always be unscrupulous characters in any industry you need to watch out for. Be very wary of any practice which shies away from revealing details about their qualifications or practicing history.
Getting that personal touch from a dental practice
You could have the best dental practice in the world right next door to you house, and at a very reasonable price, but it all counts for nothing if you don’t feel comfortable and at ease when you go there.
When choosing a dental practice, one of the most important things to consider is how you feel in the chair, especially if you are one of the many people who have a slight fear of the dentist.
You want a practice where you feel relaxed and a dentist with whom you are comfortable with.
A good sign is being able to ask questions, and getting detailed, satisfactory answers in return.
If you are nervous about a treatment, does your dentist understand this concern, and are they responding to it?
Do you even feel comfortable asking questions in the first place? If the answer is no, then this practice isn’t for you.
Why SDAI ticks all the boxes
Here at SDAI we pride ourselves on being one of the most respected practices in Sydney. We make sure we tick all the boxes when it comes to choosing a dental practice for you and your family.
Location – We’re located at Martin Place, right in the heart of Sydney CBD, between Wynyard and Martin Place metro stations, ideally situated if you work in the city, or are coming in on the train.
Price – SDAI is a professional dental practice and our rates are standard for the excellent work we provide. We don’t over-charge because not only is it unethical, but because we soon wouldn’t have any patients! We also provide HICAPS facilities to claim with private health funds on the day of your treatment. Should you have any financial concerns, we can provide support to investigate options, such as Smile Right – a dental specific payment plan solution with interest-free terms.
Professional Qualifications – One thing you don’t have to worry about at SDAI is a lack of qualifications!
Dr Dean Licenblat graduated from the University of Sydney’s Dental program, and has also completed his Bachelor of Science with honours in Microbiology. Dr Dean then went on to gain a Masters Degree in Oral Implantology from Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany and now lectures both domestically and internationally on Oral Implants and Surgical procedures.
Dr Melissa Licenblat has a Medical Science degree from the University of Sydney coupled with an honours degree from their esteemed Dental Program. Dr Melissa also went on to attain a Graduate Diploma in Conscious Sedation and Pain Control and practices as a sedationist.
That personal touch – One of the things we value and which makes us stand out from other dental practices in Sydney is our patient care. From the moment you step into our office you’ll notice the relaxed and calming atmosphere where our staff feel like one big family.
We take the time to speak to each patient individually to understand their needs, concerns and dental goals, and guide them through the treatment process. At SDAI we strive to provide our patients with dental care that is innovative, comprehensive and comfortable in a safe and caring environment.
If you would like to know more about choosing a dental practice or would like to make an appointment to see us, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Our friendly and informative staff will be happy to help in any way they can.